How to use spray glue
Need to make some repairs around the house or have a craft project on the go? Spray glue is the perfect DIY or crafty companion. Bonding most materials, you can easily fix paper, wood, metal, foam, carpet, cork, foil, leather, felt, cardboard, metal, rigid plastic, stone, concrete and rubber, in a simple spray or two.
This guide will take you through how to use spray glue in just a few simple steps. Whether you're looking to create a collage or poster, fix a piece of furniture, or even create wallpaper repairs, discover how simple and effective Bostik's multipurpose spray adhesive can be!
What is spray adhesive?
Spray glue, also known as spray adhesive, is a permanent contact adhesive in an aerosol format. It applies as a mist from a spray can, so is super simple to apply.
Bostik's permanent spray glue is called Fast Tak, an extra strong spray glue that bonds most materials in seconds! It's high-tack formula means it will stick items quickly and permanently, so be sure to follow our steps for how to use spray adhesive, to avoid making mistakes!
What is spray glue used for?
Bostik's Fast Tak is perfect for repairing small objects, decorative accessories or even furniture. It's also ideal for mounting large pieces of paper onto card and other smaller craft items during artistic ventures.
When you're faced with broken possessions, rather than buying new spare parts, or even replacing them entirely, choose to repair what's broken and become a #REPAIRHERO! To help you understand how to use the Bostik spray glue, we're going to take you through how to repair the coating of a table tennis bat.
How to apply spray adhesive
Are you ready to use spray glue? Find out how to do it in our five simple steps…
Step 1: Prepare your surfaces
First things first, ensure the surfaces to be glued are clean and free from dust and dirt. Protect surrounding areas using newspaper or old textiles to avoid damaging items from over spraying.
Prepping your surface so it’s fit for bonding is critical in creating a long-lasting, strong bond to withstand the test of time.
Step 2: Shake to wake the spray adhesive
Thoroughly shake the can before use to wake the adhesive.
Step 3: Spray to your surface
Point the nozzle at the item to be glued and spray the surface from approximately 15 to 20cm (6 to 8 inches) away. Slowly move the aerosol can across the area to create an even layer of product and to avoid any build-up.
- For repositionable bonds: Fast Tak is a permanent spray glue, so for a repositionable bond, application should be light, and the surfaces should be brought together after 15 seconds, to allow for repositioning.
- For a permanent bond: For a standard bond, apply a medium layer of adhesive and once your glue has been applied, leave until just tacky for approximately 4 minutes.
- For a stronger, permanent bond: On very porous surfaces such as wood, brick, paper, and cardboard, use two coats of adhesive to create an extra strong bond. Allow the first coat to dry for 3 to 5 minutes before applying the second coat.
Step 4: Align and press together
Once you've applied the Fast Tak permanent spray glue, carefully align the surfaces for a precise application, mindful that it can be hard to reposition the items once stuck. Then, press the surfaces together and leave to dry.
Fast Tak dries within 2 to 5 minutes in standard applications at normal conditions, and 3 to 5 minutes when using two coats.
Step 5: You're done!
Ta-da! You're repair is complete, and you've learnt how to use spray glue.
After use, purge the nozzle by turning the can upside down and spraying away from you for a few seconds to prevent clogging. You can also wipe the nozzle for any leftover residue using an acetone-based product on a cotton pad or cotton bud, such as white spirit or nail varnish remover.
Good to know: If you need to clean certain areas or tools used during the application of spray adhesive, know that it can be cleaned with a dampened cloth of white spirit or acetone.
